Discusses collaborative writing with hypermedia and multimedia tools as well as the requisite hardware and software support that foster cognitive and social skills. Proposes research on the impact on and possibilities for students and teachers using collaborative writing in hypermedia environments. (102 references) (JKP)

A 1993 National Study of High School Restructuring surveyed principals of 3,380 high schools concerning restructuring elements being used. Although 10-15% of U.S. schools are being restructured, few are simultaneously employing key elements (performance standards, authentic assessment, interdisciplinary curriculum, school-based decision making,…

Describes the role and successes of locally-based public education funds. These nonprofit public/private partnerships, linked by the Public Education Fund Network in Washington, DC, are active in more than 60 U.S. cities, having moved beyond their initial efforts to whole-school change and involvement in critical policy questions. (SLD)

Argues that parents be included in developing a model for early childhood education. Recommends the careful consideration of the support parents provide their children for reaching educational outcomes, as well as the support received by parents. Addresses the composition of stakeholders involved in developing a model of outcomes and indicators.…

Argues that both state and local politics are more influential than current theory, educational research, and practitioner craft knowledge in shaping the initial conceptualization and subsequent implementation of reform initiatives in the Chicago (Illinois) public schools. Messages for other school systems are highlighted in the Chicago…

Examines tensions and contradictions associated with proposals to restructure schools, empower teachers, and create a professional, collaborative work environment. A broad school democracy must include parents, community members, and students in structured decision-making processes. Teacher empowerment and school restructuring must coincide with…

Massachusetts' public education system has a long history of excellence and high regard. Recently, a declining economy, changed demographics, and a conservative government have placed the commonwealth's schools in crisis. This article describes recent state educational reforms, particularly funding and programmatic initiatives, highlighting 1985…

Discussion of redesigning the current models of public education focuses on the Schoolyear 2000 Initiative in Florida, which is aimed at large-scale redesign of schooling. Design requirements for the new model are described, the role of technology is discussed, and the use of quality systems and total quality management (TQM) concepts is reviewed.…

Reviews the restructuring of the Chicago (Illinois) Public Schools. Key choices made about restructuring over 10 years are discussed, and 18 key elements for improvement are identified. It is argued that the reform is on the right track, with potential for substantial impact. (SLD)

Argues that an appropriate reform agenda for urban school districts would require reform characterized by the design of client-centered, authentic respectful organizations that build from the needs and interests of students, rather than the convenience of employers or conventions of traditional schooling. (SLD)

Danish coeducational elementary school teachers are conducting innovative pedagogical projects and use sex segregation as an organizational method in introducing and developing equal opportunities and antisexist pedagogical initiatives. Teachers committed to gender equity and antisexism and who are close to their students can effectively use the…

One of five articles on professional development schools in this theme issue. Discusses six developmental stages of collaboration--formation, conceptualization, development, implementation, evaluation, and termination/reformation--in the implementation of professional development schools at the University of South Carolina, Columbia, including…

Two case studies examine how an educational reform effort affected specific students and how it involved minority populations in urban schools. The two schools studied involved different types of restructuring efforts in Milwaukee (Wisconsin) and Chicago (Illinois) schools. Examining ethnic issues in reform efforts helps identify specific reform…

The assistant secretary for the Office of Educational Research and Improvement of the U.S. Department of Education presents a brief review of approaches to school finance issues. Cites the Clinton administration's goal to target the bulk of Title I (formerly Chapter 1) funds to the neediest schools in the neediest districts. (MLF)

Discussion of the need for school reform focuses on teaching students enrolled in teacher education programs how to use systems approach principles to help with instructional planning. Topics discussed include setting objectives; selecting instructional materials; evaluating instructional effectiveness; constraints and pressures faced by teachers;…